Mr. Elliot was born March 30, 1942, in Buffalo, Minn., to Harvey and Nellie (Varner) Elliott. He graduated from St. Cloud State University and then earned a Master of Divinity from Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, Minn.

On Sept. 16, 1966, he married Barbara Anderson from Dassel, Minn.

Throughout his life he worked as a pastor, probation officer, restaurateur, insurance broker, and most recently an investment advisor with the McAlvany Financial Group in Durango, where he worked until his death.

“He loved to serve, and his passion was to help those in need and to be a father to the fatherless,” said his wife, Barbara. He cherished his family, which was his pride and joy. He truly lived life for them, his wife said.

He served on numerous committees and boards.

Mr. Elliot is also survived by his son, Kirk Elliott of Bayfield; daughter Karrie Hardesty of Trussville, Ala.; sisters Beverly Barringer of Annandale, Minn., Ginny Russell of Bloomington, Minn., and Patricia Olson, and Zella LaLiberte both of Edina, Minn.; brother Tom Elliott, of Benson, Ariz.; and five grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012, at Pine Valley Church, 1328 Country Road 501, in Bayfield. Pastor Scott Kujath will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Bruce Elliott Memorial Fund for Single Parents. To do so, go to www.pinevalleychurch.com and follow the online giving tab. All donations are tax deductible. Designate Bruce Elliott Memorial in the offering area.